Let's Go! - Tools

Step FiveImplementation

The tools we have selected for your review and use are easily accessible,
reasonably straight- forward in application and offer the greatest utility
for the time invested in learning them. Many of the tools are oriented
toward information access and management such as "how-to" information
on monitoring, databases and hot-line information numbers. Some tools
are more directly "action-oriented" such as the Pollution Prevention
Guides. Regardless, it is important to remember that time resources -
advocacy, program staff, political and public support are prerequisites
for success. Technical tools absent a viable vehicle for implementation
are of little use. Committed people and opportunity are necessary. Community
involvement continues to be an important and integral part during the
implementation phase.

And, although we have separated out the tools by issues, we would encourage
an integrated approach to problem-solving as much as possible.
For example, ecological management and pollution prevention tools are
the most interdisciplinary of tools offered. Efforts to protect or restore
the integrity and functions of an ecosystem or watershed will require
that stressors be identified, impacts mitigated and performance measured
by actual environmental results: ecosystem management is a comprehensive
and multimedia tool.

Pollution Prevention (P2) also represents an integrated approach to problem
solving. Depending on the issue of concern, P2 can produce some of the
most effective results. Pollution Prevention tools are specific to pollution
sources and are intended to reduce or eliminate the pollution source at
the site before it can become an environmental or health problem.

Below we have listed the Action Plans, by way of example, that we developed
in How Do We Get There? Under each Action Plan there are several
key issues to get you started. Click on the Action Plans which interest
you and find out about policy, regulatory, technical, financial and other
tools which will assist you in achieving the sustainable future that your
community wants.

Community Involvement provides tips
and recommendations for engaging local leadership, businesses, public
institutions and community members in support of implementation activities.